The impact of wildfires and biomass burning on preterm birth in California

Wildfires and intentional biomass burning in California and Preterm Birth

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10820468

This study is looking at how air pollution from wildfires and burning materials might affect the chances of having a baby born too early, especially in places like Fresno County where pollution is high, to help expectant parents understand any risks during pregnancy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10820468 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to air pollution from wildfires and biomass burning affects the risk of preterm birth in California, particularly in areas like Fresno County that experience high pollution levels. The study will analyze birth records and environmental data to understand the relationship between air quality and pregnancy outcomes. By examining different sources of air pollution, including wildfires and controlled burns, the research aims to identify specific risks associated with these exposures during pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women living in areas affected by high levels of air pollution, particularly those in California.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those living in areas with low air pollution levels may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health guidelines and regulations to protect pregnant women from harmful air pollution.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that prenatal exposure to air pollution is linked to adverse birth outcomes, indicating that this study builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.